2001 Audi S8

Introduction:

The 2001 Audi S8 is a high-performance luxury sedan known for its powerful engine and sophisticated interior. It is powered by a naturally-aspirated 4.2-liter V8 engine that produces 360 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. The S8 was also available with a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. While the S8 is praised for its performance and luxury features, it has also been known to have some reliability issues.

Engine

4.2L V8 Engine

• Oil consumption:
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may consume excessive amounts of oil, causing the oil level to drop significantly between oil changes.
  • Solution: Replace the piston rings and valve stem seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain tensioner failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: The timing chain tensioner may fail, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damaging the engine.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Manual Transmission

• Shifter issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: The shifter may become loose or difficult to move, making it difficult to shift gears.
  • Solution: Replace the shifter bushings or the entire shifter assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Tiptronic Automatic Transmission

• Transmission slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may slip when shifting gears, causing a loss of power or a shuddering sensation.
  • Solution: Overhaul the transmission or replace the transmission with a rebuilt unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

No Issues Found

Electrical

• Electrical gremlins:
  • Description/Symptoms: Various electrical components may malfunction, causing issues such as flickering lights, dead batteries, or faulty gauges.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the faulty electrical components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

No Issues Found

Interior

• Center console trim cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: The center console trim may crack or break over time, especially around the shifter area.
  • Solution: Replace the center console trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2001 Audi S8 is a powerful and luxurious performance sedan, but it has been known to have some reliability issues. The most common problems are related to oil consumption, timing chain tensioner failure, electrical gremlins, and center console trim cracking. The severity of the issues can vary, and the cost to repair them can be significant. However, many S8 owners still enjoy the vehicle’s performance and driving experience despite these issues.